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City Air Quality Dips: Pollution Levels Rise
7 Oct
Summary
- Air quality index reached moderate levels for the first time this season.
- Temperature inversion and weaker winds are causing the pollution increase.
- Early monsoon withdrawal contributed to the pollution's early onset.
For the first time this season, the city's air quality has declined to a moderate level (102), following a week of satisfactory conditions. This deterioration is primarily due to falling temperatures and reduced wind speed, according to the India Meteorological Department (IMD).
An IMD official explained that temperature inversion, where a layer of warm air traps cooler air and pollutants near the surface, is a significant factor. Additionally, an anticyclonic movement over the region is limiting wind dispersion, further concentrating pollutants.
Experts predict the pollution levels will increase in November as temperatures drop further, compounded by stubble burning and firecracker usage. The relatively early monsoon withdrawal on September 23 is also considered a reason for the pollution's onset in early October this year.
Meanwhile, residents can anticipate some relief as a fresh Western Disturbance is expected to bring light rains, potentially lowering mercury, humidity, and pollution levels. The maximum temperature has seen a slight increase, remaining a couple of degrees above normal, with minimum temperatures also elevated.
